Bengaluru:Reinforcing its commitment to fostering innovation and nurturing young creative talent, Maruti Suzuki India Limited has officially announced the launch of the second edition of its flagship design challenge, DesignXathon 2026. Following the significant success of the inaugural event in 2025, this initiative invites students from Indian and global design institutes based in India to envision the future of mobility.
The theme for this year’s challenge is particularly forward-looking: “Envision an iconic vehicle, Gen Z and Alpha aspire to own in 2036.” Participants are encouraged to look a decade ahead, creating holistic design visions tailored for the years 2035–2040. Submissions will be assessed based on vehicle category choice, relevance to the lifestyle of future generations, integration of sustainability, and the seamless connection between design philosophy and technology.
Empowering Emerging Talent:
Speaking on the launch, Mr. Hisashi Takeuchi, Managing Director & CEO of Maruti Suzuki India Limited, stated:
“Automotive design goes far beyond aesthetics; it is a blend of innovation, creativity, and fresh perspectives. The inaugural Maruti Suzuki Design Challenge offered a compelling glimpse into the immense design talent across the country. I am delighted to introduce the second edition, providing young designers with a platform to translate their bold ideas into reality.”
He further emphasized that young minds are pivotal in challenging conventional thinking and shaping the foundation of a robust design ecosystem in India.
Rewards and Opportunities:
DesignXathon 2026 offers more than just recognition. The program features substantial rewards for promising designers:
Cash Prizes: Rewards totaling up to INR 450,000.
Internships: The top three teams will secure a prestigious six-month internship with the Maruti Suzuki design team, working alongside industry experts. Teams ranked fourth to tenth will also receive recognition and the opportunity to apply for internships.
Mentorship: The top 25 shortlisted teams will receive direct mentorship from experienced automotive design professionals.
A Proven Track Record:
The first edition of the challenge saw participation from over 400 students across 70 leading institutes, including the MIT Institute of Design, VIT Vellore, and the Strate School of Design. Currently, eight students from the previous cohort are undergoing their internships, gaining hands-on experience in a professional automotive studio environment.
Aspiring designers have until July 13, 2026, to submit their applications and potentially shape the vehicles of the next decade.